Young Larry
Larry the Polar Bear Series
What’s inside...
After being hit on the head by his mother and told to fend for himself, Larry the polar bear floats from Baffin Bay to New Jersey where he gets a job as a lifeguard.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Larry learned from his adventures?
How do you think Larry felt when he discovered something new?
Why is it important to explore and be curious like Larry?
What would you do if you were in Larry’s place during his adventure?
How do you think Larry’s experiences helped him grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Larry’s journey, relating it to their own experiences of exploration and learning. Highlight the importance of curiosity and asking questions, just like Larry does in the book. Use expressive reading techniques to bring the story to life, changing your tone and pace to match the excitement of Larry's adventures. After reading, consider engaging in an activity that mirrors what Larry did, such as a nature walk, to make the themes of the book more tangible.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: In 'Young Larry,' Larry's interactions with diverse characters illustrate the importance and richness of friendships. These relationships help him navigate various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and nurture relationships with peers, understanding that everyone has unique qualities to offer.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: Larry's adventurous spirit and inquisitive nature drive the narrative, showing how his questions and explorations lead to exciting discoveries and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore the world around them, promoting lifelong learning and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Throughout the book, Larry encounters characters who are distinctly different but are celebrated for their uniqueness, teaching the importance of accepting oneself and others.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the value of being true to themselves and respecting others' differences, fostering a more inclusive mindset.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Larry faces various situations where he must think creatively to resolve conflicts or overcome obstacles, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Prepares children to handle real-life challenges by thinking critically and finding innovative solutions.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: Larry's continuous journey of learning new things from the characters he meets emphasizes the joy and benefits of acquiring new knowledge.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to engage in learning not just in academic settings but as an enjoyable and endless part of everyday life.